James Beard Award-winning Portland steakhouse to reopen after March fire

Ox Restaurant closed in late March when a fire broke out during dinner service.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A celebrated steakhouse in Northeast Portland’s Eliot neighborhood is preparing to welcome diners once again after closing due to a fire in March.

On Monday, the Argentina-inspired Ox Restaurant revealed its plans to continue service later this week.

“After months of repairs and delays, we are finally ready to open our doors this Wednesday, July 10th!” Ox wrote on Instagram. “We cannot wait to light up that grill and feed you all!”

Just before 7 p.m. during dinner service on Wednesday, March 20, a fire broke out near the steakhouse’s grill on the first floor and spread to the roof. When Portland firefighters arrived on the scene, they cut into the roof and extinguished the flames. But the damage had already resulted in nearly four months of repairs.

“Thankfully, everyone is safe and the building will be fine, and we will reopen as soon as possible,” Ox said shortly after the incident. “We are so grateful for the prompt and effective response from Portland Fire and Rescue!”

Ox’s resurgence is good news for many, after the restaurant rose to national prominence in 2017 with Greg Denton and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton’s James Beard Award for best chefs in the Pacific Northwest. The duo secured several nominations from the culinary organization in the four years prior.

After reopening this Wednesday, the restaurant will offer service from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly for indoor and outdoor seating. Its menu includes empanadas, grilled steak and roasted half duck.